Real Madrid Defensive Crisis Deepens as Carvajal Sidelined

Real Madrid Faces Right-Back Emergency After Carvajal Injury

Real Madrid defensive crisis has reached a critical point following the calf injury suffered by Dani Carvajal during the high-stakes Madrid derby. The experienced right-back is expected to be out for at least a month, leaving Real Madrid without any fit, natural right-backs for a prolonged period. This setback occurs at a crucial stage of the season, with several important fixtures on the horizon.

Xabi Alonso Forced to Rethink Defensive Plans

With Carvajal joining the injury list that already includes Trent Alexander-Arnold, who is sidelined for up to eight weeks, manager Xabi Alonso faces a significant challenge. Both players being unavailable simultaneously means Real Madrid must now operate without a dedicated right-back, forcing Alonso to consider unconventional solutions to fill the gap. This situation threatens to unsettle the team’s defensive stability as they navigate domestic and European competitions.

Upcoming Fixtures Complicate Real Madrid’s Situation

The timing of Carvajal’s injury could not be worse. Real Madrid’s fixture list includes essential La Liga matches and a critical UEFA Champions League tie against Kairat Almaty on September 30, 2025. Without a fit right-back, Alonso may need to adapt his tactics, potentially deploying midfielders or center-backs out of position to cover the right flank. Such adjustments can disrupt the overall balance and chemistry of the squad.

Potential Solutions for Real Madrid’s Defensive Crisis

Alonso’s options are limited. He could turn to versatile squad members such as Nacho Fernandez, who has filled in at right-back in the past, or promote a youngster from the academy. Another alternative could involve shifting the team’s formation, possibly opting for a three-center-back system to reduce reliance on full-backs. However, each of these solutions carries its own risks and may expose the team to defensive vulnerabilities, especially against high-quality opponents.

Impact on Team Morale and Tactical Approach

The Real Madrid defensive crisis is likely to test the team’s resilience and morale. The absence of Carvajal and Alexander-Arnold means the leadership and experience typically found on the right side of defense will be missing. This could put additional pressure on the remaining defenders and force Alonso to rotate his squad more frequently, potentially affecting consistency and performance levels.

Real Madrid Defensive Crisis: What’s Next?

As the club navigates this challenging period, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Alonso responds. The coming weeks will require strategic ingenuity, squad unity, and perhaps a bit of luck to overcome the shortage at right-back. Real Madrid must minimize defensive lapses to maintain their ambitions in both domestic and European competitions.

For more news and updates on Real Madrid’s evolving situation, visit for more news.

Opinion: A Defining Moment for Xabi Alonso

This Real Madrid defensive crisis could prove to be a defining moment for Xabi Alonso as manager. How he manages this adversity and finds solutions will not only determine the team’s success in the coming matches but also his own reputation at the helm. While the absence of key right-backs is a significant blow, overcoming such challenges is what separates great teams from the rest. If Real Madrid can weather this storm, it will speak volumes about their depth and character.